Ohio State is looking to avoid a major letdown against Purdue after the thrilling win over Penn State a week ago. While the Buckeye offense had to punt on their first drive of the game, the special teams unit came up with a crucial play shortly after.

So far, the defense has kept the Boilermakers in check with a pair of quick punts on the first two drives of the game. The second punt came from Purdue’s own end zone, and the Buckeyes were ready.

Caden Curry busted through the protection and was mostly unblocked on his rush. Purdue punter Keelan Crimmins never had a chance, and Curry delivered a clean block. The punt never reached the original line of scrimmage with Ohio State taking over on Purdue’s 8-yard line.

To Purdue’s credit, the ensuing drive was not an easy one for Ohio State. Short runs by Quinshon Judkins and Will Howard eventually led to a 4th-and-goal situation for the Buckeyes, but Ryan Day wasn’t about to kick a field goal.

On 4th down, Ohio State kept the ball in the hands of its quarterback, and Howard delivered with a short touchdown.

We’ll see if the Buckeyes are able to get things unhitched a bit with more efficiency, but it’s good to see the special teams unit come up with an early game-changing play. The broadcast can be seen on FOX.